How to Become a Smithsonian Affiliate

Smithsonian Affiliations creates long-term relationships with museums and other educational organizations in order to fulfill the Smithsonian’s mission, “the increase and diffusion of knowledge,” and to advance the Smithsonian’s Strategic Plan.

Organizations interested in learning more about the program or in applying to become a Smithsonian Affiliate are highly encouraged to contact the Smithsonian Affiliations office before completing or submitting the application materials.

To become a Smithsonian Affiliate, an organization must have a physical location where it currently provides services and/or activities for the public, and must be open to the public on a consistent and predictable schedule. Organizations under development or not yet open to the public are not eligible. Affiliates must be non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) designations and current Form 990s on file with the IRS, or public institutions/agencies associated with state or local governments.

The Affiliations staff works closely with each Affiliate to identify Smithsonian resources that can be brought to its community. Please note that any expenses related to these opportunities are the responsibility of the Affiliate. Read our FAQs for more information about becoming a Smithsonian Affiliate.

The 2018 deadline is closed. Please check the Affiliations website after February 2019 for the next deadline.

Staff at The Rockwell Museum (Corning, New York) pause for a photo-op with Smithsonian Affiliations National Outreach Manager, Jennifer Brundage, the day the Museum became an official Smithsonian Affiliate in 2015. Photo courtesy of The Rockwell Museum.

Smithsonian Affiliations

In 45 states, Puerto Rico, and Panama, there are over 200 Smithsonian Affiliate organizations all working together to preserve our heritage, expand knowledge, and inspire learning.